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Gurigula Interview

"Most important things is the melody for Gurigula's music. First we make a melody and next give it a rhythm and phrase. And last add a gimmick." - HAL

Gimmick or no, when fashion meets the world of Japanese rock you never know exactly what to expect in the long run. Formed in 2009, the three member rock band Gurigula are taking their shot in a genre of music that boasts both great talent and less-than-inspired processed groups. With a look that is both appealing and distinctive and a sound that impresses we think Gurigula may just have what it takes to play with the big boys.

On May 4, 2010 the members of Gurigula were kind enough to give an interview to Andrew
from J-Pop World. All photos courtesy of Gurigula.

Tell us the story of how the band was formed.

HAL: The Japanese band "Gurigula" consists of myself as vocalist (ex-member of SILVER), bassist Ryu (ex-member of SILVER and The Shu-2) and guitarist HAZKI (ex-member of UNSEEK and Great Confusion).

I played solo and Ryu played as a member of "The Shu-2" as well as a support bassist of other bands. In early 2009, Ryu, HAZKI, who was performing for his band "Great Confusion", and I united to form the new band "Gurigula" under the concept of "Japanese formal Beauty".

Most of the songs are written by myself, and have a delicate lyrical
feelings which come from the Japanese sense of language. Their melodies are based on the sense of harmony and spirit of unity.
Our live shows and sounds are well planned technically, and we hope the audience is struck by our songs' expressiveness and unique sense of the world.

You have an amazing look. Can you tell us what inspires your fashion
sense?

Our fashion is influence by different cultures from Western to the Edo period
in Japan.

Kataomoi is one of our favorite songs of yours. Who did you write it for?

This song is for sufferers in the throes of unrequited love.

Hane shows the more laidback side of the band. Can you tell us more
about the song?

We want to tell of the sorrows of the helpless children against war.

I'll never forget your love shows off the varied style of the group.
What does the song mean to you?

This song tells of the lover who decided to walk on and live a separate life. It's about having old memories and changing your mind to live a new life.

How do you create your songs? Can you tell us about the process you use?

Most important things is the melody for Gurigula's music. First we make a
melody and next give it a rhythm and phrase. And last add a gimmick.

What other bands have inspired you the most musically?

Queen, a-ha, hide...

Tell us more about your stage show. Do you have any rituals you do
before you perform?

We pray backstage.

What can fans who go to see you live expect?

To share feelings and time in Gurigula's world.

Let's learn more about everyone. Can you each tell us where your
hometown is and what it was like growing up there?

HAL: Tokyo. When I was a child my parents were divorced. I'd listen to the
radio all the time alone.

Ryu: Tokyo. I was a little rascal.

HAZKI: Saitama. I visited overseas several times on my father's business trips.

How did you first get into music?

HAL: When I was a child, a neighbor taught me about rock music.

Ryu: It was decided when I was born.

HAZKI: It was inevitability.

How did you pick the type of musical instrument you play today?

HAL: My father sang at a club when he was young. He had an effect on me.

Ryu: I wanted a guitar but I bought a bass by mistake...

HAZKI: The guitar chose me.

What kind of music did you play when you were starting out?

HAL: Hard rock.

Ryu: Yea, hard rock.

HAZKI: Visual rock.

Who have been some of the most important people in your musical career?

HAL: My father.

Ryu: Jaco Pastorius.

HAZKI: Hide.

Do you have a favorite place to perform?

Webster Hall NYC.

Btw, who came up with the band's name and what does it mean?

HAL: I decided. It's the title of a children's story which I liked when I was a child.

Outside of music what do you all do for fun and relaxation?

HAL: Riding motorcycles.

Ryu: I don't have anything except music.

HAZKI: Playing games.

Anyone married or have kids? Any plans on marriage or kids in the
future?

None of us are married and no one has kids. We'll let what happens come naturally.

What are the band's plans for the rest of the year?

We want to play on various countries and NYC again.

Do you have a final message to all your fans?

Welcome to Gurigula's world!!! Please enjoy our music and performances. And let's enjoy it all together!